Essential Happy Hour Networking Spots in KC
Whether meetings are done for the day or the convention is wrapping up until next year, attendees will be in search of places to unwind with their coworkers and clients. From classic watering holes to unique hangs, there’s no shortage of options for attendees throughout the metro.
Discover some of Kansas City’s most essential happy hour networking spots:
Classic Stomping Grounds
Some of KC’s finest happy hour destinations are also the city’s most timeless and dependable.
In the River Market neighborhood, those in search of a classic cocktails will find a hospitable home in Harry’s Country Club. Also in the area is Brown & Loe, a bright, stylish bistro right at the edge of the City Market.
Just steps away from the Kansas City Convention Center, Bristol Seafood Grill is an inviting gem in the Power & Light District thanks to its fresh, high-quality menu and excellent happy hour offerings.
A quick ride south on the KC Streetcar means easy access to local stalwarts such as Tannin (wine plus bites), The Jacobson (New American dining with an excellent patio setup) and Pierpont’s (quintessential KC steakhouse experience in Union Station).
Attendees can travel a little further south to Westport, where area mainstay Harry’s Bar and Tables gives locals and visitors alike a gathering place fit for groups of every size.
Refined Meeting Spots
Celebrating or all business, special occasions call for extraordinary settings, including inspiring destinations perfect for wowing clients.
Sample seasonal, artfully prepared cocktails at SoT in Kansas City’s eclectic Crossroads Arts District.
Guests can treat themselves to stellar Italian meals at celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich’s namesake restaurant Lidia’s while another notable name, James Beard Award-winner Chef Michael Smith, keeps things humming at Mediterranean tapas restaurant Extra Virgin.
Meanwhile, whiskey is the specialty at Julep, French cuisine and flavor shines at Le Fou Frog and elegance is a staple at Story. in Prairie Village.
Creative Hangs
Meeting attendees won’t soon forget their time in KC after visiting some of the city’s most unique happy hour haunts.
Ample space, inspiring cityscape views and near-endless taps make Boulevard Brewing Co.’s Beer Hall a craft brew paradise.
If in search of spirits, visitors need look no further than Champagne haven Ça Va or mezcal and tequila-centric Port Fonda, both after-hours destinations anchored in Westport. Share tapas and sangria pitchers at La Bodega or sample international fare and libations at Tribe KC.
Recharging or calling it a day, Messenger Coffee Co. combines soaring, modern spaces with craft caffeination via espresso drinks, pour overs, teas and more.
For totally off-the-wall, visitors can post up at The Ship, a nautical-themed speakeasy that touts a jukebox stocked full of soul hits, a bar that serves up classic drinks and a calendar full of live performances throughout the week.